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Delicious slice of Black Velvet Cake with cream cheese frosting and chocolate drizzle.
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Black Velvet Cake

A decadent and visually striking dessert combining rich chocolate with velvety textures, perfect for any celebratory occasion.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Baking, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Black Velvet Cake, Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, Celebratory Cake, Chocolate Cake, Dessert Recipe
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of your cake.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar Enhances flavor and moisture.
  • 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder Provides the cake's deep chocolate taste.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Essential for achieving the right rise.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking soda Helps create a light texture.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Enhances the sweetness.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Adds moisture and a slight tanginess.
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist.
  • 2 large eggs Provides structure and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1 cup brewed strong coffee (cooled) Enhances the chocolate taste.
  • 1 tablespoon black food coloring (optional) For a deeper, darker color.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened) Adds creamy and tangy goodness.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter (softened) Contributes to a smooth frosting.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the frosting's flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled brewed coffee.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the black food coloring, if using.

Baking

  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting Preparation

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until fluffy.
  • Stir in the vanilla extract.

Assembly

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
  • Carefully place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
  • Decorate as desired with chocolate shavings or fresh berries.

Notes

Make sure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.